Leonardo DiCaprio Explains Why He Covers His Face in Public After Being Named TIME’s Entertainer of the Year

Key Points

• Leonardo DiCaprio opened up to TIME about why he often hides his face in public.
• The actor says maintaining privacy has been a lifelong challenge since Titanic made him a global star.
• DiCaprio believes staying out of the spotlight between projects is key to career longevity.
• He rarely appears in public unless promoting a film and often wears hats, glasses, or masks when he does.
• His latest film, One Battle After Another, is now available for digital rental and purchase.

DiCaprio Reflects on Fame and Privacy After TIME Honor

Fresh off being named TIME’s 2025 Entertainer of the Year, Leonardo DiCaprio is offering rare insight into how he navigates life as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. In a new interview with the magazine, the One Battle After Another actor discussed the pressures of fame and why he frequently shields his face in public.

For DiCaprio, the challenge has been constant since Titanic launched him into international stardom nearly three decades ago.

“Disappear as Much as You Possibly Can”

DiCaprio told TIME that balancing visibility and privacy has shaped his entire adult life.

“It’s been a balance I’ve been managing my whole adult life,” he said. “And still I’m not an expert. My simple philosophy is: only get out there when you have something to say or something to show. Otherwise, just disappear as much as you possibly can.”

He added that preserving a sense of normalcy is essential to sustaining a long career.

“I love what I do, and I feel like the best way to have a long career is to get out of people’s face.”

A Lifetime in the Spotlight

DiCaprio has been a public figure since his teens, a reality that taught him early on how to protect his personal life. Outside of press tours or premieres, he is rarely photographed — and when he is, he’s typically wearing a cap, sunglasses, or even a mask to avoid attention.

The actor’s low‑profile approach stands in contrast to his massive global fame, but he says it’s the only way he can maintain balance.

What’s Next for DiCaprio?

DiCaprio’s latest film, One Battle After Another, is now available for rent and purchase, continuing its strong awards‑season momentum following his Entertainer of the Year recognition. As the industry heads into a competitive 2026 awards cycle, DiCaprio is expected to remain a major contender.